File this under Things I Want But I Can’t Have: Cle de Peau’s Vintage Palette III, the world’s most heavenly luminizing face powder.

For the third year in a row, Cle de Peau has created a special, limited edition holiday powder. Each year is unique, and though I haven’t seen Vintage Palettes I or II myself, my sales associate described them more as contouring powders compared to the 2011 edition.

To see the compact in person takes your breath away. The mosaic pattern of the powder is repeated in the geometric design on the lid. The powder also lifts up to reveal a full-but-wonderfully-soft brush applicator.

One of the sales associates used this brush to dust powder on the back of my hand. Instant angelic glow — can my hands always look this good?

I arm-swatched it with a triangle sponge — heavily, because this is one of the most finely milled powders I’ve ever tested, and anything less would be unphotographable. The result was an incredibly fine beige-golden shimmer. This powder is too delicate to use as a spot-highlighter (on your cheekbones, under your brows). I’d use it all over for an otherworldly glow.
The Vintage Palette III is $125.

And for reference (or nostalgia, or curiosity), here are Vintage Palettes I and II:

I actually purchased this and tried it on my face in the store. It definitely gave me a glow without being too shiny/glittery. And I found to be quite long lasting compared to the powder I was already wearing that day! The price tag was crazy but I think it’s both a good collector’s item and functional piece.

I got last year’s one, managed to get it off someone on eBay for less than half the price (brand new). I haven’t actually used it, it’s too pretty to use, so I really don’t think I will buy this year’s. When I see things like this at a bargain price, I just have to have them, and then just keep them untouched. Silly I know. It is so gorgeous though. ♥